PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

The purpose of this position is to provide a vital supporting function to the Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) office towards efficiently managing the intellectual property policy of NWU and effectively executing strategic commercialisation goals. The appointee to the position will be responsible for a range of technology transfer functions, with emphasis on:

• Exploring, identifying and evaluating NWU technologies and innovations with prospects of intellectual property protection and commercialisation.
• Advising and engaging NWU researchers and innovators on opportunities for protection and commercialisation of NWU intellectual property.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with NWU researchers and innovators.
• Undertaking prior art searches, competitive analyses and market analyses for various innovations and technologies.
• Analysing intellectual property and making recommendations for suitable route of protection.
• Identifying and engaging industry partners for collaborating in development and commercialisation of NWU intellectual property.
• Identifying and engaging potential partners for commercialisation of NWU innovations.
• Undertaking coordination and project management activities for technology transfer projects.
• Creating awareness on commercialisation and NWU IP policy through training sessions and presentation to NWU stakeholders.
• Communicating and liaising with both NWU internal and external stakeholders.

·          A 4-year bachelor’s degree or honours degree (NQF level 8) in Engineering, Natural or Biological Sciences, Information Technology, Social Sciences or Arts.

·          A minimum of 5 years’ experience in a technology transfer environment / intellectual property management/ innovation commercialisation.

·          A minimum of 3 years’ experience in undertaking intellectual property assessments / competitive analyses for innovations and technologies.

·          A minimum of 3 years’ experience in writing technical/business reports and proposals.

·          A minimum of 1 year experience in managing projects.

·          A minimum of 1 year experience in industry engagement and networking with a range of stakeholders including private and public sector organisations.

RECOMMENDATION / ADDED ADVANTAGE:

·         Proven experience and knowledge in utilising intellectual property and market intelligence software or online tools.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

·          Ability to understand and analyse information from a wide range of technical and scientific fields.

·          Understanding of processes regarding knowledge transfer and the commercialisation of research.

·          Problem-solving and critical thinking skills in a business environment.

·          Market research and/or skills to perform competitive analysis.

·          Excellent verbal and written communication skills: Ability to develop business documents and to write professionally (Reports, innovation marketing and business plans).

·          Ability to translate scientific research into accessible communications to a general audience.

·          Good oral and presentation skills: Ability to present to audiences of varying sizes.

·          Strong interpersonal and influencing skills.

·          Ability to create professional networks.

·          Ability to meet set targets within tight deadlines.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

·          Highly motivated and self-starter.

·          Propensity for getting things done and completed.

·          Flexible and cooperative.

·          Ability to work collaboratively and independently.

·          Problem solver.

·          Attention to detail.

·          Willingness to learn.

REMUNERATION:

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:                    Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa, Tel: 018 299 4902

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO:    Mr Zenyo Seboko, Tel: 018 299 4951

CLOSING DATE:                                                                                                      10 May 2024

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                                           As soon as possible

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website.

Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.